In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Cloudy with a High of 56

📰 Japanese New Year’s Traditions Come to Market Square

📰 The Smokies Card Show Comes to Covenant Health Park

🗓️ 10X Your Visibility - A Powerful In-Person Event for Women Ready to Lead, Be Seen, and Grow

🗓️ Dreams Brings a Fleetwood Mac Tribute Night to Crafty Bastard Brewery – West

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Japanese New Year’s Traditions Come to Market Square

Welcome the New Year with culture, community, and hands-on fun at the Japanese New Year Celebration on January 25th, from 2:00 PM–3:30 PM at Market Square. Hosted by Knox Asian Festival, this festive afternoon brings beloved Japanese traditions to the heart of downtown.

Guests can experience the joy and meaning behind Japanese New Year customs through interactive demonstrations and performances. One of the highlights is Mochi Tuki (mochi pounding)—a lively, communal tradition where participants can watch (and even join in) the rhythmic pounding that creates fresh, chewy mochi to enjoy afterward. The celebration also features calligraphy performances, showcasing the beauty and artistry of Japanese writing, along with a calligraphy experience table where attendees can try writing Japanese characters themselves.

Families and children will find plenty to enjoy with traditional Japanese toys and games, making this event welcoming for all ages. With its focus on peace, joy, and togetherness, the celebration offers a meaningful way to start the year while learning about and honoring Japanese culture.

Whether you’re curious about cultural traditions, looking for a family-friendly afternoon, or simply want to celebrate the New Year in a unique way, this Japanese New Year Celebration promises a warm, engaging, and memorable experience right in the center of Knoxville.

The Smokies Card Show Comes to Covenant Health Park

Card collectors, sports fans, and hobby enthusiasts will want to mark their calendars for a big day at Covenant Health Park (502 E. Jackson Ave. NE). On January 31st, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Collective Trading Company is bringing The Smokies Card Show to one of Knoxville’s most exciting venues for an inaugural, stadium-scale event.

Presented by The Collective Trading Co., LLC, in partnership with Collectors Corner and sponsored by Sports Treasures and KnoxBox Collectibles, this show promises to be the largest card show event the Smokies have seen. Organizers are quite literally “taking over the stadium,” transforming Covenant Health Park into a hub for trading cards, collectibles, and fan culture.

Attendees can expect a wide range of vendors offering sports cards, memorabilia, and collectibles, along with opportunities to connect with fellow collectors and industry insiders. Vendor registration is already open, with tables available for those looking to showcase or sell their collections. Tickets are just $5, and kids get in free, making this a family-friendly outing for longtime collectors and newcomers alike.

Autograph signers and additional attractions will be announced closer to the event, adding even more excitement to an already packed day. Whether you’re hunting for rare cards, expanding your collection, or simply soaking in the energy of a major hobby event, this is one show you won’t want to miss.

The Smokies Card Show is shaping up to be a can’t-miss celebration of collecting in East Tennessee—secure your spot early and be part of this landmark event at Covenant Health Park. More Info & Tickets

Local VIP Passes - No App, No Signup, Just Perks

NEW - eWomenNetwork Knoxville Chapter Pass - for women in business, whether or not you are a member of eWomenNetwork!

Interested in learning about how a VIP Pass can help your business? Reach out to [email protected] for more information!

10X Your Visibility - A Powerful In-Person Event for Women Ready to Lead, Be Seen, and Grow

Women entrepreneurs in Knoxville are invited to step into the spotlight at 10X Your Visibility — Multiply Your Confidence, Clients, and Credibility, an energizing, in-person experience designed to help business owners elevate their presence and position themselves as go-to experts in their fields.

Hosted by eWomenNetwork as part of its Accelerated Networking Events (ANEs), this inspiring session takes place on January 13th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the stunning Ancient Lore Village.

The featured speaker is Mary Gooden, a 20-time best-selling author and internationally recognized speaker known for helping entrepreneurs communicate their value with clarity and confidence. During this interactive session, Mary will share practical, actionable strategies that attendees can immediately apply to their businesses.

Participants will learn how to:

• Own and confidently share their authentic story to build trust and authority

• Apply the “Visibility Trifecta” — confidence, consistency, and commitment

• Identify the most effective pathways to grow an audience and attract aligned clients

This event is ideal for entrepreneurs who are ready to stop playing small, show up strategically, and expand their impact while connecting with other driven women in a supportive, high-energy environment. Whether you’re looking to boost confidence, refine your message, or grow your client base, this experience is designed to meet you where you are — and help you level up.

Seats are limited, and early registration is encouraged. More Info & Register

The Knoxville chapter of eWomenNetwork, led by Managing Director Kat Mahn, continues to create meaningful opportunities for women to connect, collaborate, and grow. This event promises both inspiration and real-world tools — all in one unforgettable afternoon.

Dreams Brings a Fleetwood Mac Tribute Night to Crafty Bastard Brewery – West

Fans of timeless rock are in for a treat when DREAMS — A Fleetwood Mac Experience comes to Crafty Bastard Brewery – West (9937 Kingston Pike) on January 16th, from 7 PM–9 PM. This live show invites audiences to relive the magic, mystique, and unforgettable sound of Fleetwood Mac in an intimate, high-energy setting.

Known for transporting listeners back to the golden era of classic rock, Dreams delivers a spellbinding tribute packed with the band’s most iconic hits. From soaring harmonies to emotional guitar lines, the performance captures the spirit and musical depth that made Fleetwood Mac legendary. Whether you’ve loved these songs for decades or are discovering them anew, this experience is designed to stir nostalgia and keep the crowd singing along.

Set inside Crafty Bastard’s West Knoxville location, the evening pairs live music with craft beer, great vibes, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a Friday night out. With strong community interest already building, this show promises to be a memorable gathering for rock fans across the area.

If you’re looking to kick back, raise a glass, and lose yourself in classic songs like “Dreams,” “Go Your Own Way,” and more, this is one live music night you won’t want to miss. Arrive early, grab a drink, and get ready to relive the soundtrack of a generation.

NEW - You can now add events directly to your calendar with our event Add to Calendar links.

Multi-Day Events that are ‘Now through a certain date are listed below the dated events.

Recurring events

🗓️ January 2nd - Looking for a warm, welcoming way to kick off the new year? The Motley Crew Community Luncheon returns from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University (401 W. Summit Hill Drive), offering an afternoon centered on food, fun, and fellowship. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 3rd - Collectors, history buffs, and curious shoppers alike are invited to explore the Knoxville Coin and Currency Show from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event takes place at 8807 Kingston Pike and is open to the public with free admission. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 3rd - Add a personal touch to your home décor at the Seasonal Door Mat Class, happening from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Dr., Powell). Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 3rd - Collectors, hobbyists, and families alike are invited to kick off the new year at The Collective Trading Co. Monthly Showcase, happening from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This popular monthly card and collectibles show takes place at 10915 Hardin Valley Road and continues to grow as one of the region’s premier destinations for trading cards and fandom culture. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 3rd - Kick off 2026 with intention, energy, and inspiration at Drip into Wellness @ Knox Fit Fest, happening from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the World's Fair Exhibition Hall in downtown Knoxville. This all-day wellness experience brings together 55+ local health and fitness businesses under one roof, creating a one-stop destination to explore tools, services, and ideas designed to help you jump-start your wellness goals for the new year. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 4th - Kick off your Sunday with good food, good drinks, and laid-back vibes at Sunday Funday Mimosa Brunch, happening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Last Days of Autumn Brewing (900 E Magnolia Ave). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 4th - If you’re looking for a cozy, creative way to ease into the new year, the Snowflake Canvas Class is a perfect winter outing. Hosted by Painting Around, this all-ages, instructor-led class takes place from 4 PM–6 PM at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell). Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 4th - Brides-to-be, newly engaged couples, and anyone helping plan the big day are invited to one of East Tennessee’s most anticipated wedding events of the year: The Pink Bride Wedding & Women’s Show, happening from Noon–4:00 p.m. at the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley Street). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 5th - If learning to dance salsa has always been on your bucket list, this is your moment. Salsa Knoxville Dance Company is kicking off an 8-Week Salsa Bootcamp starting at 7:00 p.m., and it’s designed for absolute beginners as well as anyone who’s ever said they have two left feet. Held at 4028 Papermill Drive NW, Suite 16, this high-energy bootcamp runs every Monday through February 23rd, giving participants a fun, supportive way to build real dance skills over eight weeks. More Info

Golden Girls Themed Trivia is coming to downtown Knoxville on January 6th at 7:00 p.m. The fun takes place at Xul Beer Company – Downtown (213 E 5th Avenue) and it’s shaping up to be one of the most popular trivia nights of the season. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 6th from 5:00 PM–7:30 PM, WaveMAX Knoxville (5210 Schubert Rd) hosts Laundry Love’s monthly community outreach event. Designed to support individuals and families facing financial hardship, Laundry Love offers free laundry services in a warm, welcoming environment. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 7th - Looking for midweek laughs or a chance to test your own comedic chops? Stand Up Comedy Open Mic returns to Barrelhouse (621 Lamar St. NE) from 7 p.m.–10 p.m., offering an energetic night of live comedy with free entry. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 9th - South Knoxville’s vibrant creative scene takes center stage, as the South Knoxville Art Walk returns from 5:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Hosted by Printshop Beer Co. (1532 Island Home Ave) and neighboring South Knoxville merchants, this free, public event invites the community to explore art, music, and local flavor along the river. Held on the second Friday of each month, the Art Walk showcases a wide range of visual art while highlighting the talents of local artists and makers.

🗓️ January 9th - You are invited to turn a meal into meaningful support during a special Panera Bread Dine & Give Back Day benefiting the Knox County CAC Office on Aging Senior Companion Program. The fundraiser takes place from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Panera Bread (at the 4893 N. Broadway Street NE location). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 9th–11th - One of East Tennessee’s most anticipated automotive traditions is back this January as the 42nd Annual Cabin Fever Car & Motorcycle Show takes over the Knoxville Expo Center (5441 Clinton Highway) from 8am - 4pm. This three-day event brings together car and motorcycle enthusiasts from across the region for a weekend packed with horsepower, craftsmanship, and classic style. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 10th - Magic players and fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender have a special event to look forward to this January. Paragon Gaming (4232 Asheville Highway) is hosting a Magic the Gathering: Avatar DOUBLE DOWN event, starting at 12:00 p.m. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 10th - You are invited to take part in a meaningful morning of connection, remembrance, and encouragement at the 7th Annual A Hike to Remember 22, happening from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The event begins at Nixon's Deli #4, located at 224 N Peters Road NW. This annual hike is a suicide prevention initiative built around a simple but vital message: You Are Valuable. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 10th–11th - Repticon Knoxville is slithering back into town for a full weekend of family-friendly fun and fascination at the Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 20th - Local professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners are invited to kick off 2026 with a laid-back social networking event designed to make building connections fun and easy. Networking on Tap: IBN Evening Social takes place from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at Orange Hat Brewing – Hardin Valley (10246 Hardin Valley Road). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 27th - Hosted by 35 North Bar & Grill (11321 Kingston Pike), guests are invited to the Buffalo Trace Wheaters & Ryes Course #423 (starting at 6:00 p.m.), an in-depth whiskey tasting focused on some of the most sought-after and difficult-to-find bottles produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. This is not an introductory class—this course is designed for experienced bourbon fans who want to explore elite wheated and rye expressions in a guided, educational setting. Get Tickets | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 21st - Enjoy a day-long immersion in movement, music, and tradition at Celebrate Spring! Traditional Circle Dances from Greece, the Balkans and Armenia, from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The event will be held at Broadway Academy (706 N Broadway). The cost for the full-day experience is offered on a sliding scale of $40, $60, or $80. Advance registration is required and can be completed at www.InTheDance.com. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ Now through January 4th - Downtown Knoxville is getting a festive dose of holiday fun with The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure, a citywide scavenger hunt that invites families, friends, and holiday explorers to see downtown in a whole new way. Santa has sent Scout Elves to more than two dozen Downtown Knoxville businesses, transforming storefronts and streets into a playful holiday adventure filled with surprises around every corner. More Info

🗓️ Now through January 4th - Something bright and festive is once again lighting up Aspire Park (777 Aspire Drive) in Clinton. Aspirations in Light has returned for the season. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ Now through January 4th - The Peppermint Trail invites you to stroll through the heart of downtown and enjoy peppermint-themed treats, drinks, décor, and shopping at dozens of participating local businesses. More Info

🗓️ Now through January 4th - Get ready to kick off the holiday season in spectacular fashion — Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is back at Soaky Mountain Waterpark in Sevierville (175 Gists Creek Rd), bringing one of East Tennessee’s most dazzling drive-through light shows to life! This beloved family tradition runs nightly from 6–10 PM. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ Now through March 15th - Experience the Smoky Mountains like never before with Smoky Night Lights, a brand-new 360° immersive music and light show debuting after dark at Zoo Knoxville. This captivating event invites guests to step into the spirit of the Smokies through a multi-sensory, multimedia experience that blends nature, sound, and light in stunning harmony. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ Now through March - The Winter Farmers Market by Nourish Knoxville is back for the 2025–2026 season, bringing fresh, local food and artisan goods to Market Square every Saturday from December through March, 10 AM–2 PM EXCEPT December 27th, January 3rd, and January 10th.

Networking:

See Recurring Weekly & Monthly Networking Events

Veterans:

🗓️Free Veterans’ Breakfast: The United Veterans Council of East Tennessee presents 14 free breakfasts for Veterans and guests on four Saturdays, monthly. Coffee line starts at 8am, Chow line starts at 8:30am. Locations and Dates

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